23/12/07 – Luis Felipe Edwards (Chile) Chardonnay Gran Reserva 2007

Luis Felipe Edwards (Chile) Chardonnay Gran Reserva 2007
If you are in last-minute shopping mode for Christmas dinner, then the Co-op and Luis Felipe Edwards may just have come to your rescue with this Chardonnay and its sister Shiraz 2006, each on offer until December 30th at 3.99 down from 7.99. As with all BOGOFs and half-price offers I am as sceptical about the reduction as I am about the ‘Gran Reserva’ designation. Nevertheless, here is a nice Chardonnay, very modestly oaked as only 15% spent time in wood, and with very juicy, fat, lemon and nectarine fruited nose that is really quite elegant, with just a subtle, creamy support from the oak. In the mouth there is plenty of orange and grapefruit acidity to offset the sweet, tropical fruit, with a certain lusciouness counter-balanced by a freshness. The Shiraz is bold and fruity, but 30% ageing in French oak has given some spice and toast richness. At 3.99 it is difficult to fault these wines. 3.99, the Co-op, on offer until December 30th 2007.